Starting with your first $500 can feel like a big step.
When I think about how I would approach it today, the goal would be simple: a mix of growth potential, quality, and long-term opportunity without overcomplicating things.
Here are three options I would consider if I were starting from scratch in the current market.
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BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF (ASX: ATEC)
If I wanted exposure to growth, this is where I would start.
The BetaShares S&P/ASX Australian Technology ETF gives you access to a group of ASX technology shares in one investment. That includes businesses across software, fintech, and digital platforms such as Pro Medicus Ltd (ASX: PME), Xero Ltd (ASX: XRO), and WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC).
The sector has been under pressure, and the ATEC ETF is down heavily from its highs. That has brought valuations back down across many of its holdings.
For a beginner, I think this is a simple way to gain exposure to the tech sector without having to pick individual winners. If the sector recovers over time, this could prove to be a strong entry point.
Wesfarmers Ltd (ASX: WES)
Wesfarmers is a very different type of investment.
This is a business with a long track record of delivering good returns, supported by operations like Bunnings, Kmart, and Officeworks. These are well-known brands with strong positions in their markets.
What appeals to me here is consistency. Wesfarmers has shown an ability to grow earnings, manage costs, and allocate capital effectively over many years. That kind of reliability can be valuable when you are starting out.
It may not move as quickly as some growth names, but it has the qualities that can support long-term compounding.
ResMed Inc (ASX: RMD)
ResMed brings in a global growth angle.
The company operates in sleep apnoea and respiratory care, with a large and growing market supported by increasing awareness and diagnosis.
Sleep apnoea remains underdiagnosed globally, and ResMed continues to expand its reach through world-class devices, software, and connected care. I think this positions it perfectly for long-term growth.
So, with the share price recently hitting a 52-week low, I think a compelling entry point has been created.
Foolish takeaway
If I were investing my first $500 today, I would be looking to build exposure across different types of opportunities.
The ATEC ETF offers access to a group of tech companies at lower prices than we have seen in some time, Wesfarmers provides quality and consistency, and ResMed adds a global healthcare growth story with a long runway ahead.
You do not need to buy all three at once. Even starting with one ASX share and adding over time could be a great way to begin.
